Rogers Comm Stock Price, News & Analysis

Rogers Communications reported Q1 2021 results with total revenue rising 2% to CAD 3.488 billion. Adjusted EBITDA increased 4% to CAD 1.391 billion, while net income grew 3% to CAD 361 million. Wireless service revenue fell 6%, but the adjusted EBITDA service margin improved by 310 basis points. Cable revenue rose 5% and Media revenue grew by 7%. The company attracted 44,000 net Wireless postpaid subscribers and paid CAD 252 million in dividends. Rogers announced a CAD 26 billion acquisition of Shaw Communications, expected to close in 2022, enhancing their 5G network capabilities.

Expeto collaborates with Rogers for Business to deliver Wireless Private Networking (WPN) solutions for Canadian enterprises via a new five-year agreement. This partnership enables businesses to securely connect devices over both private and public cellular networks, enhancing digital transformation efforts. The WPN solution aids in connecting various devices, from sensors to autonomous vehicles, with end-to-end security. As per estimates, the move could lead to $2 trillion in global productivity gains by 2030, positioning Rogers at the forefront of the Industrial 4.0 revolution.

Altice USA has revised its offer to acquire Cogeco Inc. for a total value of C$11.1 billion (US$8.4 billion), which includes a premium for shareholders. This offer encompasses C$5.2 billion for the Canadian assets to be sold to Rogers Communications. The proposal provides significant premiums of 50% for Cogeco's shares and 45% for Cogeco Communications shares based on their average prices. The deal is subject to approval by Cogeco's boards and shareholders, and if no agreement is reached by November 18, 2020, the offer will be withdrawn. The transaction aims to enhance Altice's operations across 11 U.S. states.

On September 25, 2020, Rogers announced a $3 billion investment proposal aimed at enhancing connectivity, creating jobs, and driving economic growth in Quebec. This plan includes expanding 5G coverage to 95% of the population and creating up to 300 skilled jobs through a new tech innovation hub. The investment will also maintain Cogeco’s brand and headquarters in Quebec, ensuring 5,000 jobs in a combined entity. Additionally, Rogers plans to upgrade services for existing Cogeco customers and sustain community partnerships.

Rogers Communications has launched its 5G network in Fredericton, New Brunswick, marking it as the first in Atlantic Canada. Powered by Ericsson, this expansion is part of Rogers' national rollout to enhance connectivity across over 60 cities. The company has collaborated with Ignite Fredericton to set up a 5G-enabled Cybersecurity Innovation Lab, which is expected to foster innovation and digital resilience. The rollout represents significant investment in infrastructure, with Rogers having invested over $30 billion in its network over 35 years, aiming to support economic growth and job creation in the region.

Rogers Communications reaffirmed its commitment to expand its presence in Quebec, emphasizing plans to retain Cogeco's headquarters and management team post-acquisition. The company aims to bolster its 5G network and enhance connectivity in rural areas, highlighting investments exceeding $2 billion in the province over the last decade. Rogers, marking 35 years in Quebec, currently employs about 3,000 people locally and serves nearly 2 million wireless customers. A recent study indicated Rogers' economic impact in Quebec at over $2.7 billion, supporting over 11,000 jobs.

Altice USA announced an offer to acquire 100% of Cogeco's shares, with plans to sell Cogeco's Canadian assets to Rogers Communications if the deal goes through. Altice claims the proposal offers a significant premium to Cogeco shareholders. However, Cogeco's board rejected the offer on the same day. Altice and Rogers have expressed their intent to engage further with Cogeco's shareholders and boards regarding the proposal, emphasizing its attractiveness.

Rogers Communications has announced an agreement with Altice USA to purchase Cogeco's Canadian assets for approximately $4.9 billion. This deal is contingent upon Altice USA's acquisition of Cogeco. Rogers, a long-term Cogeco shareholder, supports the Altice offer, which includes significant premiums for shareholders. The transaction aims to strengthen Rogers' market position and reach an additional 1.8 million homes and businesses. The net cash consideration for Rogers is estimated at $3.4 billion, financed through existing liquidity without the need for equity issues.